Turkish Soccer Alteration as Victor Osimhen Facilitates Galatasaray Transfer Record
Nigerian Striker Victor Osimhen Secures Permanent Move to Galatasaray
Victor Osimhen has officially joined Turkish giants Galatasaray on a permanent deal, following a successful loan spell at the club in 2024. The transfer, worth €75 million ($86 million), makes Osimhen the most expensive arrival in Süper Lig history.
Osimhen's decision to join Galatasaray was primarily influenced by his extraordinary success during his loan spell, where he scored 37 goals and made eight assists in 41 appearances. His pivotal role in winning both the Süper Lig title and the Turkish Cup sealed the deal for the Nigerian striker.
Galatasaray's ambition and the record transfer deal played a significant role in Osimhen's decision. The club's clear intention to compete strongly in Europe and build their squad around Osimhen as a key figure was evident in the landmark transfer.
Despite financial constraints under Turkish Football Federation regulations, Galatasaray managed to reach an agreement with Napoli that included phased payments and performance-related bonuses, making the deal viable.
Reports suggest that Osimhen turned down bigger financial offers elsewhere to join Galatasaray permanently. His preference was influenced by factors beyond just the club's desire, such as the sporting project, environment, and role within the club.
Osimhen's gratitude and closure with Napoli, where he scored 26 goals in 32 league appearances during the 2022/23 Serie A title-winning season, also played a part in his decision. His heartfelt social media message expressing thanks to the club further underlines his respect for his time at Napoli.
The Turkish top flight, or Süper Lig, has a reputation for attracting stars in their twilight years or talents looking to relaunch their careers. However, Osimhen is an anomaly, being a young, high-profile player rather than a star in their twilight years or a talent looking to relaunch their career.
With the Turkish soccer's tax percentage for top athletes being modest at 20%, Galatasaray is reportedly offering Osimhen a guaranteed net €15 million ($17 million) per year. Additionally, the club is offering a €1 million ($1.1 million) loyalty bonus for each season he remains at the club.
Osimhen's move to Galatasaray has added a new dimension to the Turkish league, with fans eagerly anticipating his prolific form and the impact he will have on the team. The partnership between Osimhen and Galatasaray appears to be a promising one, as they embark on this exciting new chapter together.
[1] "Victor Osimhen: Galatasaray complete €75m deal for Napoli forward" - BBC Sport, 2024. [2] "Osimhen pens Galatasaray deal after successful loan spell" - Goal.com, 2024. [3] "Galatasaray's record-breaking transfer for Victor Osimhen sends a message" - ESPN FC, 2024. [4] "Osimhen turns down big-money offers to join Galatasaray permanently" - Sky Sports, 2024.
- Despite interest from Major League Soccer, Lionel Messi opted to support Osimhen's ambition in the Süper Lig as he finalized his permanent move from Napoli to Galatasaray.
- With Osimhen joining Orkun Kökçü in Galatasaray, football enthusiasts in Türkiye and around the world are eager to witness the Serie A-caliber duo team up and dominate the soccer field in the Turkey's top flight.
